Agriculture remains one of the most vital systems on our planet, with nearly half of the world’s habitable land dedicated to farming and about one-third of the global population relying directly on it for their livelihoods. Yet, these systems face increasing vulnerability due to climate change, soil degradation, water scarcity, and biodiversity loss. To help address these challenges, the National Geographic Society (NGS), in collaboration with PepsiCo, has launched an Open Call for Proposals: Building Resilience in Agriculture.

This funding opportunity is part of the Food for Tomorrow initiative and is designed to support innovative, science-based, and field-tested projects that help strengthen the resilience of farms, farming communities, and ecosystems. Proposals must focus on regenerative and nature-positive solutions with measurable outcomes.

The deadline for submission is September 30, 2025, at 11:59 PM EDT.

Opportunity Overview

This grant program seeks to identify and support projects that can be applied in real-world agricultural contexts and that demonstrate measurable impact. Projects must include a predominant field or land component and directly address farming, farming communities, or landscapes adjacent to cultivated land.

The main goal is to make agriculture more resilient to climate change and extreme weather events while advancing sustainable practices.

Focus Areas for Measurable Outcomes

Projects should demonstrate and support practices in at least two or more of the following areas:

• Soil Health: Build fertility and structure to support productive ecosystems both above and below ground.

• Climate Mitigation and Adaptation: Enhance resilience to climate impacts, sequester carbon, and reduce greenhouse gas emissions.

• Watershed Health: Improve water efficiency and reduce nutrient runoff to ensure healthy watersheds for farms and communities.

• Biodiversity: Protect and restore biodiversity in agricultural landscapes, including forests, pollinators, and soil microbiomes.

• Improved Livelihoods: Strengthen farmer livelihoods with access to training, decision-making, and sustainable farming resources.

Eligibility Criteria

To qualify for this funding opportunity, applicants must meet the following requirements:

• Be over the age of 18.

• Submit projects with a predominant field or land component.

• Request a budget not exceeding USD 150,000.

• Complete the project within two years of receiving funding.

• Co-design projects with farmers and ensure they include one or more of the following crops:

  • Corn

  • Wheat

  • Oats

  • Potatoes

  • Sugar beets

  • Oilseeds (canola, sunflower, rice bran)

  • Rice

  • Cocoa

  • Oil palm

  • Raisins

  • Soy

• Ensure the application is written in English.

Ineligible Projects

Proposals will not be considered if they:

• Focus solely on livestock or animal farming.

• Focus solely on fiber crops.

• Are not co-designed with farmers.

• Are basic research only without applied field components.

• Require land conversion (projects must be conducted on existing cultivated land).

• Exceed the maximum budget of USD 150,000 without secured external funding.

Benefits of the Grant

Successful applicants will be recognized as National Geographic Explorers and join the global Explorer Community. This offers long-term networking, mentorship, and visibility opportunities.

Additional benefits include:

• Invitations to events in Europe (early 2026) following award notifications.

• Participation in a multi-day gathering at National Geographic headquarters in Washington, DC.

• Access to mentorship, training, and elevation opportunities.

• Potential features in National Geographic and PepsiCo communication materials, such as videos, photography, and global media platforms.

Application Process

• Applications must be submitted online only via the official application portal. Submissions by email or post will not be accepted.

• All applications should demonstrate alignment with FAIR and CARE principles to ensure ethical integrity and inclusion.

• Applicants are encouraged to co-produce projects with local collaborators who have farming expertise and community knowledge.

For more details on the application process, visit the official page:
National Geographic Grants and Investments

Informational Webinars

To guide applicants, the National Geographic Society will host three one-hour webinars:

• Tuesday, August 5, 2025 – 9:00 PM EDT (01:00 UTC)

• Thursday, August 7, 2025 – 11:00 AM EDT (15:00 UTC)

• Monday, September 8, 2025 – 9:00 AM EDT (13:00 UTC)

Recordings of the August 5 and August 7 webinars will be available online. Registration is open for the September 8 session.

Key Details at a Glance

• Funding Type: Grant (Level II)

• Funding Size: Up to USD 150,000

• Target Applicants: Individuals with experience leading regenerative, field-based agricultural projects

• Eligible Regions: Global

• Project Duration: Up to 2 years

• Deadline: September 30, 2025 (11:59 PM EDT)

• Language: Applications must be in English

Contact Information

For any questions not addressed in the guidelines or FAQs, applicants can contact:
📧 funding@ngs.org (with subject line “Building Resilience in Agriculture RfP”).

Conclusion

This call for proposals represents a unique opportunity for researchers, practitioners, and local farming leaders to scale innovative, regenerative solutions to climate challenges. With support from the National Geographic Society and PepsiCo, successful projects will not only receive financial assistance but also gain international recognition, mentorship, and the chance to contribute to building a more resilient agricultural future.

To apply, visit HERE
For more information, visit the official National Geographic Society Application Portal.